Tripp Lite by Eaton SmartOnline 208V-to-120V Step-Down Isolation Transformer — 5kVA / 5kW, 2U Rack-Mount, TAA

The Tripp Lite by Eaton SmartOnline Step-Down Isolation Transformer is the trusted solution for converting a high-voltage 208V input into a safe, steady 120V output while delivering true electrical isolation for your connected equipment. Engineered for reliability in data centers, server rooms, labs, and network closets, this 2U rack-mount transformer blends rugged durability with precise power conditioning. By isolating sensitive devices from line noise, transient spikes, and ground loops, it helps protect critical infrastructure—from servers and switches to storage systems and high-performance workstations—ensuring consistent performance and minimized downtime. The SmartOnline lineage from Tripp Lite and Eaton emphasizes uptime, efficiency, and power quality, making it an ideal upgrade for organizations that depend on clean, stable power to keep applications running smoothly. Its compact 2U footprint makes it a practical fit for modern racks, enabling efficient use of space without compromising on protection or performance. Whether you’re outfitting a single rack in a data center or building out a larger IT deployment, this transformer delivers the reliability and power integrity required to keep hardware operating at peak levels.

• High-capacity step-down power with industry-leading rating: This transformer provides 5 kVA / 5 kW of reliable power from a 208 VAC input to a 120 VAC output, supporting a wide range of IT and network devices. With ample headroom for startup surges and peak loads, it helps maintain stable voltages across diverse equipment portfolios, reducing the risk of voltage-related hardware faults and data errors.
• Isolation and noise rejection for sensitive equipment: It offers true isolation between input and output, minimizing ground loops, EMI/RFI, and power line noise. This isolation helps protect servers, storage arrays, routers, switches, and other delicate electronics from disturbances on the utility feed, improving uptime, reducing maintenance cycles, and promoting consistent system performance.
• SmartOnline protection and reliability for mission-critical IT: Built to support continuous operation, the SmartOnline designation signals robust protection features, including dependable voltage regulation and solid performance under fluctuating utility conditions. It helps keep critical workloads running smoothly during brownouts or brief outages when paired with appropriate protection strategies in your data center.
• Space-saving, rack-ready enclosure: The rugged 2U enclosure is designed for standard server racks, delivering a compact footprint without compromising accessibility or airflow. The 2U form factor makes it straightforward to integrate into existing rack infrastructure, simplifying cabling, maintenance, and monitoring while preserving rack density for equipment deployment.
• TAA-compliant procurement for government and enterprise deployments: This model meets Trade Agreements Act requirements, making it suitable for government procurement and many large enterprises. Its compliance streamlines purchasing processes and aligns with compliance-focused IT procurement policies.

Technical Details of Tripp Lite by Eaton SmartOnline Step-Down Isolation Transformer, 208V to 120V, 5kVA, 5kW, 2U Rack-Mount, TAA

• Input voltage: 208 VAC
• Output voltage: 120 VAC
• Power rating: 5 kVA / 5 kW
• Phase: Single-phase
• Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Enclosure: 2U rack-mount
• Isolation: True isolation transformer
• Compliance: TAA-compliant
• Form factor: Rack-mountable equipment suitable for standard IT racks

how to install Tripp Lite by Eaton SmartOnline Step-Down Isolation Transformer

• Plan placement and rack integration: Select a suitable location within a standard 19-inch equipment rack, ensuring adequate ventilation and clearance for airflow. Use provided mounting rails or hardware to secure the 2U transformer in a stable orientation, keeping intake and exhaust areas clear to prevent overheating and to maintain efficient cooling for adjacent components.
• Verify electrical code compliance: Before installing, confirm that the installation aligns with local electrical codes and facility standards. Ensure the electrical service can provide 208 VAC at the appropriate phase and that all work complies with electrical safety regulations. When in doubt, involve a licensed electrician or electrical engineer.
• Connect input power: Attach the transformer's input connection to the 208 VAC supply in accordance with the manufacturer’s wiring diagram. Use secure, rated connectors and ensure a proper ground connection to the equipment grounding conductor for safety and effective fault protection.
• Route the 120 VAC output to loads: Connect the transformer’s output terminals to the 120 VAC circuits feeding your IT devices. Distribute the load across circuits to maintain balanced power delivery and prevent overloading any single branch. Label cables clearly to facilitate future maintenance and inspections.
• Grounding and bonding: Bond the transformer enclosure and all connected equipment to the facility ground to ensure safety and reduce the risk of electric shock or stray currents. Verify that grounding paths provide a low-impedance connection for protective devices and that all metal surfaces are properly bonded.
• Initial power-up checks: With input power applied, use a multimeter or power meter to verify that the output voltage is in the expected range (around 120 VAC under nominal load). Check for abnormal warmth, unusual noises, or vibrations. Ensure all connections are secure before placing equipment under load.
• Function testing and load commissioning: Gradually introduce the connected equipment, monitor voltage stability, and observe for any anomalies or warning indicators from the transformer. Confirm that critical devices receive clean, stable 120 VAC as loads ramp up, and adjust cabling or distribution as needed for optimal performance.

Frequently asked questions

• What voltage input does this transformer accept? It is designed for 208 VAC input, converting to a regulated 120 VAC output for connected devices.
• What is the output voltage and how much load can it support? The unit outputs 120 VAC and is rated for 5 kVA / 5 kW, suitable for powering a range of servers, switches, storage arrays, and other sensitive IT equipment within that load envelope.
• Is this a UPS or a line-interactive device? This transformer provides step-down isolation and voltage transformation, not battery-based backup. It is intended to improve power quality and protection; for uptime during outages, pair it with an appropriate uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or backup solution.
• Is the unit rack-mountable? Yes. It comes in a 2U rack-mount enclosure designed to fit standard server racks, enabling efficient use of space in data centers and equipment rooms.
• Is it TAA-compliant? Yes. The model is Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliant, making it suitable for government procurement and other compliance-focused deployments.
• What environments is this transformer best suited for? It is ideal for data centers, server rooms, lab environments, and network closets where clean, isolated 120 VAC power is needed for sensitive IT gear and networking equipment.
• How does isolation improve performance? Isolation reduces ground loops and mitigates noise and transient disturbances, helping to protect equipment from voltage irregularities and improving reliability and uptime for critical systems.